Friendship

How have I offended you?

In thought or word or deed?

A moment’s madness, surely?

For to hurt is not my creed.

A tender heart to suffer

At wrongs I may impose,

Please take this humble offering,

Please take, from me, this rose.

A wayward word, a cruel remark,

From proud and sinful heart,

When once the arrow flees the bow

It finds its chosen mark.

This rose, with thorns, I offer you

For friendship is a sword

Double-edged with kindness

And, shame, the hurtful word.

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